The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for airlines following the declaration of the Ebola outbreak by the World Health Organization in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Under the new SOP, airlines operating flights connected to Uganda and Congo have been directed to ensure the mandatory collection and submission of self-declaration forms from passengers before disembarkation. The move aims to strengthen surveillance and prevent the spread of the disease in India.

Health Announcements Mandatory Onboard

According to the DGCA, airlines must make specific health-related announcements during flights to help identify potential Ebola cases at an early stage. Passengers have been advised to immediately inform cabin crew members, immigration officials, or medical authorities upon arrival if they experience symptoms associated with Ebola.

The symptoms listed in the advisory include fever, weakness, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, and bleeding. Authorities said prompt reporting of symptoms is crucial for timely medical intervention and containment measures.

SOP Outlines Protocol For Suspected Cases

The aviation regulator further stated that travellers who develop symptoms within 21 days of arriving in India should seek medical assistance from designated hospitals and inform the airport health office immediately.

In cases where a passenger onboard an aircraft is suspected of having Ebola, the SOP directs airlines to relocate the individual to the rear section of the aircraft. If feasible, three rows in front of the passenger and adjacent seats should be kept vacant to minimise exposure risk.

Also Read: India issues fresh Ebola advisory after WHO global health emergency warning

The DGCA has also instructed airlines to maintain adequate stocks of safety and medical supplies, including triple-layer masks, disposable gloves, PPE kits, hand sanitisers, and bio-hazard disposal bags as part of precautionary preparedness measures.